The difference between Hardly and Only just
When used as adverbs, hardly means firmly, vigorously, with strength or exertion, whereas only just means recently.
Hardly is also interjection with the meaning: not really.
check bellow for the other definitions of Hardly and Only just
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Hardly as an adverb (manner, obsolete):
Firmly, vigorously, with strength or exertion.
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Hardly as an adverb (manner, archaic):
Harshly, severely.
Examples:
"I can't really deal hardly with people."
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Hardly as an adverb (now, rare):
With difficulty.
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Hardly as an adverb (degree):
Barely, only just, almost not.
Examples:
"they hardly ever watch television;  I hardly think they'll come in this bad weather;  it's hardly possible he could lose the election."
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Only just as an adverb:
recently; just now
Examples:
"I've only just cleaned the floor, and you've made muddy tracks!"
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Only just as an adverb:
barely; by only a small margin
Examples:
"I got 51%, so I only just passed the exam."